Rhinoplasty — nose surgery
One of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures in the world — and our strongest subspecialty, with more than 750 rhinoplasties performed.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance and/or function of the nose. It can be carried out to address a range of concerns:
- A nose that is too large or too small
- A crooked nose
- A hump on the bridge of the nose
- A protruding or drooping nasal tip
- A deviated septum that makes breathing difficult
Who is a candidate for rhinoplasty?
Good candidates for rhinoplasty are usually in good general health and have realistic expectations of what the procedure can achieve. They may have various concerns about the nose — a bump on the bridge, a crooked nose or a nose that is out of proportion with the face.
Rhinoplasty is a highly individualised procedure and what suits one person may not suit another. During the consultation the surgeon will carefully examine the nose and facial structure and discuss your goals. They will also review your medical history and the medications you take, so that the rhinoplasty is safe and appropriate for you.
If you are unhappy with the appearance or function of your nose and are in good health, rhinoplasty could be an excellent option to consider.
What does the procedure look like?
Before the procedure, patients are given anaesthesia to ensure their comfort during surgery. The surgeon then makes incisions in inconspicuous areas of the nose to access the cartilage and bone that will be reshaped.
Depending on individual needs, the surgeon may reduce the size of the nose, reshape the tip or correct a deviated septum to improve breathing. Because our surgeons are also ENT specialists, the functional and aesthetic parts of the procedure are handled by the same hands. The incisions are carefully closed to reduce the risk of visible scars, and the patient is monitored in the recovery room.
Post-operative recovery
After the procedure, swelling, bruising and discomfort are common and can be managed with medication. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions to support proper healing and reduce the risk of complications.
It is important to have realistic expectations: it may take several months before the full results are visible. Many patients report feeling more confident and comfortable with their appearance after rhinoplasty.
A gallery of our patients.
The results of rhinoplasty can be life-changing for people who were unhappy with their nose and can lead to a significant improvement in quality of life. Results vary from patient to patient.
750+ rhinoplasties.
The procedures are performed by Dr. Zoran Kranjčec and Prim. Dr. Marijan Kovačić — ENT specialists and subspecialists in head and neck plastic surgery. A functional and aesthetic approach to the nose in the same hands. See the other procedures of head and neck plastic surgery.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Zoran Kranjčec, subspecialist in head and neck plastic surgery · Content last reviewed:
Rhinoplasty — patients' common questions.
How long does nose surgery take and what anaesthesia is used?
Rhinoplasty usually takes 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. It is performed under general anaesthesia, and the patient generally goes home the same or the next day.
Is rhinoplasty painful?
The procedure itself is painless as it is performed under anaesthesia. After surgery, a feeling of pressure and nasal congestion and mild discomfort are common, which are successfully controlled with painkillers.
When are the final results of rhinoplasty visible?
Most of the swelling subsides in the first few weeks, but the final shape of the nose — especially the tip — forms gradually and may only be fully visible after 6 to 12 months.
Can the same operation also improve breathing?
Yes. Our surgeons are ENT specialists and subspecialists in head and neck plastic surgery, so in the same procedure they can correct a deviated septum and improve nasal airflow alongside the aesthetic correction (septorhinoplasty).
From what age can rhinoplasty be done?
It is recommended to wait until the nose has finished growing — roughly 16 to 17 years for girls and 17 to 18 for boys. There is no upper age limit if the patient is in good general health.
Do I need a referral for a consultation?
No. A rhinoplasty consultation at Poliklinika Kranjčec is arranged privately, without a referral — directly by phone at +385 23 324 881 or via the contact form.
Thinking about nose surgery?
Book a consultation and find out what is realistically possible for your nose. Tel. +385 23 324 881
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